About this course

Entry requirements

All entrants to this postgraduate diploma should normally hold a bachelors degree awarded by a recognised UK university, or equivalent. If you hold a qualification that you believe is an equivalent level to a UK honours degree you should contact us . Your spoken and written English must be of an adequate standard for postgraduate study. If English is not your first language, we recommend that you will need a minimum score of 6.5 under the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Please see their website for details. You should possess a good working knowledge of maths and be confident with spreadsheets. It would be advisable to self-assess your level of maths before registering for this qualification. To help you decide whether you are ready, you may want to try this diagnostic quiz . If you registered on the first presentation of this qualification in November 2014 you can complete the postgraduate diploma in two years based on approximately 12 hours of study per week. From November 2015 you will also have the option of completing in one year. This can be achieved by studying two modules at a time, so completing 120 credits in your first year which you should be aware is the equivalent of undertaking full-time study.

Months of entry

October, April, February

Course content

This qualification is designed to support professional development and practice in a wide range of roles in finance - whether you are developing in your career or aspiring to enter the sector. It is applicable to roles in areas such as investment banking, portfolio management, corporate finance, treasury, and consultancy. It provides a thorough grounding in areas such as corporate finance, financial decision-making, financial reporting and governance. It develops competences in applying statistical and econometric techniques, and equips you with knowledge of the fundamentals of Islamic and behavioural finance. You can choose to specialise either in derivatives and financial risk management, or in investment and portfolio management.

You will need a computer with internet access to study for this qualification.
For most OU qualifications a Microsoft Windows (new since 2007), Apple Mac (OS X 10.6 or later) or Linux computer should be adequate.
However, some qualifications require more specific IT equipment, in which case you will need additional software to use an Apple Mac or Linux computer.
A detailed technical specification for your modules will be made available when you register.
Please note, technical specifications do change over time to match computer developments and the way we teach.

The Open University is the world's leading provider of flexible, high quality distance learning.
Unlike other universities we are not campus based. You will study in a flexible way that works for you whether you're at home, at work or on the move.
As an OU student you'll be supported throughout your studies - your tutor or study adviser will guide and advise you, offer detailed feedback on your assignments, and help with any study issues.
Tuition might be in face-to-face groups, via online tutorials, or by phone.